Living with Urgency: Preparing for Christ's Return
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we reflected on the urgency and significance of living in the last days as followers of Christ. Drawing from personal childhood experiences, we likened our readiness for Jesus' return to the way we would scramble to complete chores before our parents returned home. This analogy underscores the importance of being prepared and diligent in our spiritual lives. We delved into 1 Peter 4, where Peter provides a roadmap for living differently in these challenging times. He emphasizes the importance of being alert and sober-minded, maintaining a fervent love for one another, offering hospitality without grumbling, and using our God-given gifts to serve others.
Peter's message is clear: we must live with a sense of urgency, understanding that our time is limited and that Jesus could return at any moment. This awareness should drive us to make the most of every opportunity to walk with Jesus and reach out to those who don't know Him. We are called to maintain clarity of mind, avoiding anything that dulls our spiritual senses, and to prioritize prayer as a vital connection to God. Our prayers should go beyond mere requests for personal well-being and seek a deeper alignment with God's will.
Furthermore, Peter urges us to cultivate deep, loving relationships within the church community, practicing forgiveness and compassion. Hospitality is highlighted as a crucial aspect of Christian living, especially in supporting those in need. We are reminded to use our gifts responsibly and generously, serving others with the strength God provides. Ultimately, our actions and words should aim to bring glory to God, reflecting His greatness and love.
### Key Takeaways
1. Live with Urgency and Clarity: We must recognize that our time is limited and live with a sense of urgency. This awareness should drive us to make the most of every opportunity to walk with Jesus and reach out to those who don't know Him. Maintaining clarity of mind involves avoiding anything that dulls our spiritual senses, such as negative influences or distractions. [42:23]
2. Prioritize Prayer: A vibrant prayer life is essential for staying connected to God and aligning our will with His. Regular prayer empowers us to face life's challenges and helps us see the world from God's perspective. Our prayers should go beyond personal requests and seek deeper spiritual growth and alignment with God's will. [43:25]
3. Cultivate Deep, Loving Relationships: Building strong, loving relationships within the church community is crucial. This involves investing time and effort in getting to know one another, practicing forgiveness, and showing genuine compassion. Such relationships create a supportive and forgiving community that reflects Christ's love. [52:51]
4. Offer Joyful Hospitality: Hospitality is a vital aspect of Christian living, especially in supporting those in need. We are called to open our homes and hearts, sharing our resources willingly and joyfully without complaining. This attitude of hospitality reflects God's love and care for others. [55:24]
5. Use Your Gifts to Serve Others: Every believer has received gifts from God, and we are called to use these gifts to serve others. Identifying our talents and abilities and putting them into action is essential for the benefit of the body of Christ. We are stewards of God's grace, entrusted with these gifts to bring glory to Him and serve His people. [57:57]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[30:35] - Childhood Chores and Readiness
[31:13] - The Urgency of Jesus' Return
[32:20] - Are You Ready for Jesus' Return?
[33:01] - Context of 1 Peter
[33:43] - Living in the Last Days
[34:31] - The Imminence of Jesus' Return
[35:03] - Signs of the End Times
[36:05] - Wars and Rumors of Wars
[37:02] - Living as if Jesus is Coming Back
[38:06] - What Would You Do Differently?
[39:18] - Instructions from 1 Peter 4
[40:16] - Be Alert and Sober-Minded
[42:23] - Living with Urgency and Clarity
[43:25] - Prioritizing Prayer
[50:47] - Loving Each Other Deeply
[55:24] - Offering Hospitality
[57:57] - Using Your Gifts to Serve Others
[01:01:34] - Speaking and Serving with Excellence
[01:05:12] - Living Differently in Crazy Times
[01:06:19] - The Certainty of Jesus' Return
[01:09:40] - Invitation to Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1 Peter 4:7-11 (NIV)
> "The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Peter mean when he says, "The end of all things is near"? How should this influence our behavior? ([39:46])
2. According to 1 Peter 4:7-11, what are the specific instructions Peter gives to the church for living in the last days?
3. How does Peter describe the importance of love among believers in 1 Peter 4:8? ([50:47])
4. What are the different ways Peter suggests we can use our gifts to serve others? ([57:57])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Peter emphasize the need to be "alert and of sober mind" in the context of prayer? How does this relate to the urgency of Jesus' return? ([42:23])
2. How does the concept of "love covering a multitude of sins" challenge our typical understanding of forgiveness and reconciliation within the church community? ([50:47])
3. What does it mean to offer hospitality "without grumbling," and why is this significant in the context of Christian living? ([55:24])
4. How can we identify and use our God-given gifts to serve others effectively? What steps can we take to ensure we are faithful stewards of these gifts? ([57:57])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your current prayer life. Are there any distractions or negative influences that dull your spiritual senses? What steps can you take to prioritize prayer and maintain clarity of mind? ([42:23])
2. Think about your relationships within the church community. How can you invest more time and effort in building deep, loving relationships? Are there specific people you need to forgive or show more compassion towards? ([52:51])
3. How can you practice joyful hospitality in your daily life? Is there someone in need whom you can invite into your home or support in a tangible way? ([55:24])
4. Identify one or two of your God-given gifts. How are you currently using these gifts to serve others? What new opportunities can you seek out to use these gifts more effectively? ([57:57])
5. Consider the urgency of Jesus' return. If you knew He was coming back tomorrow, what changes would you make in your life today? How can you start living with that sense of urgency now? ([38:06])
6. How can you ensure that your actions and words bring glory to God? Are there specific areas in your life where you need to rely more on God's strength rather than your own? ([01:01:34])
7. Reflect on the importance of a vibrant prayer life. How can you encourage others in your small group or church to join you in prayer? What practical steps can you take to make prayer a central part of your community? ([46:01])
Devotional
Day 1: Living with Urgency and Clarity
Description: Recognizing the limited nature of our time on earth, we are called to live with a sense of urgency. This means making the most of every opportunity to walk closely with Jesus and reach out to those who do not yet know Him. To maintain clarity of mind, we must avoid anything that dulls our spiritual senses, such as negative influences or distractions. By staying alert and sober-minded, we can better discern God's will and act accordingly. This mindset helps us to prioritize what truly matters and live in a way that honors God. [42:23]
1 Peter 4:7 (ESV): "The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers."
Reflection: What distractions or negative influences in your life are dulling your spiritual senses? How can you remove or minimize these to live with greater urgency and clarity?
Day 2: Prioritize Prayer
Description: A vibrant prayer life is essential for staying connected to God and aligning our will with His. Regular prayer empowers us to face life's challenges and helps us see the world from God's perspective. Our prayers should go beyond personal requests and seek deeper spiritual growth and alignment with God's will. By prioritizing prayer, we cultivate a deeper relationship with God and become more attuned to His guidance and direction in our lives. This practice not only strengthens our faith but also equips us to support and intercede for others effectively. [43:25]
Colossians 4:2 (ESV): "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving."
Reflection: How can you create a consistent prayer routine that goes beyond personal requests and seeks deeper alignment with God's will? What specific steps will you take to prioritize prayer in your daily life?
Day 3: Cultivate Deep, Loving Relationships
Description: Building strong, loving relationships within the church community is crucial. This involves investing time and effort in getting to know one another, practicing forgiveness, and showing genuine compassion. Such relationships create a supportive and forgiving community that reflects Christ's love. By cultivating deep, loving relationships, we foster an environment where individuals feel valued, supported, and encouraged in their faith journey. This sense of community not only strengthens our bonds with one another but also serves as a powerful witness to the world of God's love and grace. [52:51]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Who in your church community can you invest more time and effort in getting to know better? How can you practice forgiveness and show genuine compassion to strengthen your relationships?
Day 4: Offer Joyful Hospitality
Description: Hospitality is a vital aspect of Christian living, especially in supporting those in need. We are called to open our homes and hearts, sharing our resources willingly and joyfully without complaining. This attitude of hospitality reflects God's love and care for others. By offering joyful hospitality, we create a welcoming environment where people feel valued and cared for. This practice not only meets the physical and emotional needs of others but also serves as a tangible expression of God's love and generosity. [55:24]
Romans 12:13 (ESV): "Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality."
Reflection: How can you open your home and heart to someone in need this week? What specific actions will you take to offer joyful hospitality without complaining?
Day 5: Use Your Gifts to Serve Others
Description: Every believer has received gifts from God, and we are called to use these gifts to serve others. Identifying our talents and abilities and putting them into action is essential for the benefit of the body of Christ. We are stewards of God's grace, entrusted with these gifts to bring glory to Him and serve His people. By using our gifts to serve others, we contribute to the growth and edification of the church community, reflecting God's love and grace in practical ways. This practice not only fulfills our purpose but also inspires and encourages others to do the same. [57:57]
1 Peter 4:10 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."
Reflection: What specific gifts or talents has God given you? How can you use these gifts to serve others in your church community this week? What steps will you take to put your gifts into action?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I want you to know Jesus is coming back, and he has left us instructions of what to be doing while we are waiting for his return. I want to ask you. If you knew he was coming, if he was pulling in the driveway, would you be in full panic mode? Would you be freaking out, going, oh, my goodness, he gave me this instruction, he gave me that instruction. I've ignored it. I didn't do it. I've been doing my own thing. Are you ready for the return of Jesus, or would you be in full panic mode?" [32:20] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Today, I want you to understand, we are in the last days. Today's message really ties into everything Peter's been saying for the first three chapters. But today's main thing, how we live in these last days. And I want you to understand this, that we are different because our roadmap is different. We are different than a culture, because our roadmap to scriptures is different than what the culture teaches or believes or holds onto. God has asked us to do some things, and we only have a certain amount of time to do them." [33:43] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Do you realize Jesus might come back today? I think it'd be so cool to be in the middle of a worship gathering and Jesus returns. Wouldn't that be awesome? Sunday morning when most churches are gathering across the nation, Jesus says, I'm coming back. But we don't know. He might come back tomorrow. Could be. It might be during our lifetime while we're here on earth, but you only have a certain amount of time to do what Jesus has told us to do." [34:31] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "What would you do differently if you knew he was coming back tomorrow? How would you live different? I hope the answer is nothing. I wouldn't change anything. I would do exactly what I did yesterday. I would do exactly what I'm doing today. I would continue to share the gospel the way I share the gospel. I would continue to pray the way I pray. I would continue to read the Bible the way I read the Bible. I would continue to give the way I give. I would continue to love the way I love. I would continue to be involved in church the way I'm involved in the church. I would continue just doing what I've been doing. Nothing would change." [38:06] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus a promise I can make to you because I know it's based in scripture. I promise you Jesus is returning. He's coming back. So how do you know that? Well he came. We know that in scripture. God told him he's going to die on a cross. It happened. He said he's going to be buried in a tomb. That happened. Said he's going to rise three days later. That happened. Said he's going to go to heaven. He's going to be on earth for a while and he's going to ascend to heaven. That happened. Our God's not a lying God. And he's proved himself over and over and over again. So I know he's returning." [01:05:46] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Peter opens this passage with that profound statement and is near. What that literally means is the Lord is coming. The Lord is coming. It isn't meant to incite fear in us. It isn't meant to freak us out. It's really an urgency of significance of our actions in light of eternity. To know the Lord is coming and heaven is coming is what that means. Or eternity decisions will be fulfilled in our lives or in the lives of anybody. When? Any minute. But we shouldn't live in a panic." [40:16] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Peter emphasizes the importance of love among believers. But this phrase love each other deeply speaks to a fervent sincere enduring love. This is kind of a powerful love. It covers a multitude of sins suggesting that it fosters forgiveness and reconciliation. How does love cover over a multitude of sins? Well I think the best comparison is in a parent child relationship. You've seen it many times. You're watching little Johnny or little Sally run around and you're thinking that child is out of control. That parent needs to discipline that child. Can they get the belt out just once or can they do something to get control of that child? That child's running nuts. And mom and dad are like look how sweet Johnny is. You're like yeah Johnny's a terror. Because moms and dad have blinders on. They know their kid has some issues but they love them so deeply it covers over a multitude of sins." [50:47] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Peter urges believers to offer hospitality. Then he says to do it willingly and joyfully without complaining. Man. That's a struggle. How can I offer hospitality? Give to those who have a need. Welcome those who need to be welcomed and not complain about it all. Just come on in. He was telling them to open their homes make room for those who have a need. How do you do that? Well you got to open your home in your heart. You got to be willing to share your resources. This can mean inviting someone in. It could be using your gifts. It could be giving them a place to stay. Simply just being available to listen and support. To make time. Hey can I get with you and go have a cup of coffee? Yeah. I'll make time for you. I want to be hospitable. I just want to sit down and hear. And I'm not going to complain that you took up some of my time. I'm not going to grumble about that. I'm going to actually welcome you into my life." [55:24] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Peter wraps up this passage. Basically with a call to an excellence in all that we do. So whether we're speaking or serving we do it as a representative of God relying upon his strength and aiming then to bring him glory. There are two categories out of this text that he addressed. He addressed the category whether you're speaking or whether you're serving. So are you using your mouth or are you using your hands? Now if you do a study of gifts for the New Testament there's about 12 that have been listed in various places. Some have the gift of giving. That's generosity. Some have the gift of hospitality. Some have the gift of teaching or prophecy or mercy or compassion. But these lists of 12 and some would even extend that maybe up to 15. I don't think they're an exhaustive list. Like when Paul is writing. I think Paul is writing I'm out and saying here's some gifts that are available. But as time has gone some other gifts has developed." [01:01:34] (57 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Peter says are you doing that? See in these five verses Peter provides a road map for living differently as followers. And may I say these crazy times that will get crazier so be prepared. He calls us to urgency and clarity and prayer. May I say again to you church. Here in about two minutes we're going to offer an opportunity to pray. What would keep you from responding? Urgency and clarity. Deep giving love. Calls us to that. Calls us to a joyful hospitality. To being faithful stewards of our gifts. An excellence in speaking and serving." [01:05:12] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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